Code of Business Conduct
Our Code of Business Conduct sets the standard for what is expected of everyone working for Diageo. It provides comprehensive guidance on our commitments, how to do business, and what is expected of each of us – it is our code of ethical behaviour.
A code of conduct is only as good as its implementation, which is why all Diageo employees are trained on the Code. We also give refresher training and updates as the Code evolves with changing regulation and best practice. The board again this year mandated that all senior employees complete an annual certification to confirm their compliance with the Code, and to identify any areas of possible non-compliance. Our audit committee and audit and risk committee together oversee the operation of our compliance and ethics programme.
Applicable to all
The Code applies to everyone working for Diageo worldwide regardless of location, role or level of seniority. We expect temporary and contract employees, consultants, agents and any other third party who acts in Diageo’s name to act in accordance with the principles of the Code.
Comprehensive and clear
The Code provides clear guidance on a number of areas, including:
- Our products: marketing and innovation; quality; international trade and free zone sales
- Personal integrity: gifts and entertainment; conflicts of interest; insider trading
- Commercial integrity: bribery and improper payments; competition and anti-trust; money laundering; accurate reports and accounts; data privacy
- Employment: health, safety and security; discrimination and harassment; responsible drinking
- Company assets: brand protection; confidential information; information security; records management
- External activity: external communications; political activity; community and charitable giving; human rights; environment.
You can find the Code in full here.